Moisture intrusion can be the cause of building defects, as well as health ailments for the building’s occupants. Moisture or water vapor moves into a house through air infiltration. Air movement accounts for more than 98% of all water vapor movement in building cavities. Air naturally moves from high-pressure areas to lower ones by the easiest path possible, such as a hole or crack in the building envelope. Moisture transfer by air currents is very fast. Replacement air will infiltrate through the building envelope unless unintended air paths are carefully and permanently sealed by diffusion through building material. Most building materials slow moisture diffusion, to a large degree, although they never stop it completely.
In the attic I observed next to the chimney stack, water damage. Upon further review on the roof where the masonry meets the roof there is a gap that is letting water into the home. This will need to be looked at immediately so there will be no further damage.
Water intrusion can cost a homeowner a substantial amount of money if not taken care of properly. Anything from flashing by a foundation to condensation in the air conditioning lines. These types of things need to be looked at by a professional for correct preventative measures.
The cricket at this fireplace is not flashed correctly. All roofing materials should be properly flashed to surfaces that abut the roof to prevent water intrusion. Step flashing and counter flashing are needed to properly flash the roof to the fireplace chase. The joint appears to be relying on sealant to protect it from water intrusion. Sealants will deteriorate over time and leak. We recommend the chimney chase be properly flashed by a qualified roofing contractor.
Central humidifiers need attention from the homeowner on a regular basis. The benefit they provide can also come with potential health risk if not maintained on a regular basis. Cleaning and inspection are needed to insure the appliance doesn’t create air born pollution from mold, fungi, and bacteria that are associated with high humidity.
It is recommend periodic cleaning (removal of built-up dust and dirt) of bathroom ventilation (exhaust) fans to maintain proper operation. Periodic review of caulking and grouting at all tiled areas and at backsplashes is strongly recommended to prevent moisture damage to the underlying surfaces. Repairs should always be made with the proper materials. Water leaks may not appear during the inspection if the home is vacant due to lack of normal usage, but may appear after repeated usage, and we cannot be held responsible for these.
The roof inspection is based on what is visible and accessible on the day of the inspection and is not a warranty of the roof system or how long it will be watertight in the future. For an accurate cost on what repair or replacement cost will be, a qualified roofing contractor should be contacted. All roof coverings require periodic maintenance and an annual inspection is recommended. Many leaks occur only under conditions of prolonged rain, and these conditions may not be present at the time of the inspection. Buyers are encouraged to ask the current owner about the presence of any roof leaks.
Upon inspection I noticed that there was a proper kickout flashing on the gutter to wall area. Without the kickout, water would be able to penetrate behind the exterior siding and into the framing members which could lead to a serious water infiltration leading to rot. This is also a conducive environment for wood destroying organisms
It is very important to have the correct building materials attached to the home properly with the correct house wrap, flashing, and counter flashing, along with the siding installed correctly so that water will shed down and away from the structure so that no moisture will be built up or trapped causing damage to the home.
This picture is of the basement foundation. It shows a portion of the wood panelled wall the that is resting directly on the concrete. The wood is completely rotted out due to excessive moisture and possible mold. This section of wall should be removed and investigated further to determine the extent of the issue.
I researched the stairs inspection article and had no idea there were so many deaths and injuries related to stair slips, trips and falls. Some of the things to look for when inspecting are uneven height, to steep, no slope on exterior steps to shed water and not form ice. Also check if the treads are uneven loose cracked or poorly supported.
Cracks like this in siding are a major concern due to the fact that moisture (and insects) can get into the home’s wood system easily. Unfortunately, it is common to see cracks like this in siding. While small ones can be sealed, large ones really require replacement which is difficult if matching siding is not available.
I read the article on infrared cameras and moisture intrusion. Infrared cameras are a great tool to help find moisture problems that are not apparent to the naked eye. It’s important though to use them in conjunction with a moisture meter to confirm problems.
Moisture intrusion.
Basement window has dark stains coming through the covering.
Window is covered with painted plywood due to the fact that there is not a window installed in the space. During heavy rain water raises above the sill of the window box and penetrates into the basement.
Mold Inspection.
Testing for mold should be done if apparent mold growth or conditions are noted.
Musty odors are a sign of mold growth. Both indoor and outdoor samples should be taken at about the same time for comparison. Use caution when taking a sample to avoid compromising your health.
This photo depicts a vapor retarder, and the damage that an improperly installed vapor retarder can cause. A vapor retarder is defined as having < 1 perm based on a scale of permeance levels common to building codes and other industry literature.
From this image, I have learned that a synthetic stucco (EIFS) have multiple different parts. These parts include sheathing, insulation fastened to the sheathing with a fastener and washer, mesh embedded in a base coat, a base coat, and a finish coat.
This picture shows the sheathing that is required to prevent moisture damage in a home. However, if there is significant air leakage into the attic of a home, the sheathing that is installed in the home may not be enough to prevent moisture damage.
This picture shows a capillary break in three different qualities. From this capillary break image, I have learned that the best way to break the surface tension of the water and prevent water penetration, is to have a groove in the underside.
